Slick Audi estate has electric pace
Think of an estate car and for some, it conjures up a traditional image of a huge barge on wheels that swallows a large family, a full complement of luggage, the family pets and probably the kitchen sink.
Think again. The last time I drove an A6 Avant was a few years ago, but it was far from that image. In fact, the model sported the iconic RS badge, was insanely quick with a monster 630PS of power on tap, cost an arm and a leg, but yes, could perform most of the aforementioned practical tasks. Yes it's an estate, but a world away from that dated image. There are fewer around these days with the rise and rise of the SUV and crossover models. So they need to be good to make an impact.
This is a sleek, smooth and aerodynamic vehicle that embraces the latest technology, plug-in EV technology in this case.
The problem with PHEVs is that the large battery can compromise stowage space and in this case the standard 565 litres in the petrol estate is reduced to 405 litres. Significant loss, but it does expand to 1,535 litres, but you might have to leave the kitchen sink behind. The upside is increased economy and this latest model now benefits from even greater battery capacity. The lithium-ion unit now delivers 14.4 kWh net (17.9 kWh gross) and allows an increased electric range of up 56 miles
This model is a little more sedate than the firecracker RS, but it still packs 299PS of power and quite a lot more eco friendly.
But it still has pace to burn and, mated with superb handling via the all-wheel quattro technology, delivers an excellent drive, whether on twisting country lanes where the sporty suspension and four-wheel drive lets it hug the surface limpet-like. Or on the motorway, where it cruises all day with barely a whisper.
Yes, it's still expensive, this model well north of £60k but it is a high quality hi-tech model that delivers good performance.
It looks the part, sitting on stylish 19-inch alloys, the S line has a sporty head-turning profile that attracted plenty of attention with its black styling package, black exterior mirrors and privacy glazing and red brake calipers.
The interior is premium, with heated, electrically adjustable front seats featuring ‘S’ embossing, ambient light and darkened privacy glass. In addition it features brushed aluminum inlays and illuminated door sills with the ‘S’ logo.
The heart of the car's virtual cockpit, is the central touchscreen, featuring the latest version of the firm's MMI system. This controls features like smartphone connectivity, infotainment and navigation. it also houses the latest wi-fi apps which deliver real time information.
A multi-function three spoke leather multi-function steering wheel offers paddle shifters for a more engaging drive. But for those who want daily driving on electric power and zero local emissions, they can choose EV for all-electric driving, Hybrid, obviously and Hold to conserve the electrical energy for those congestion zones. The electric range, for the time being at least, helps avoid congestion and clean air zone charges.
On the road, the hybrid unit is mated with a seven-speed S-Tronic automatic gearbox, is exceptionally quick off the mark, hitting 60mph in just over six seconds, with little or no evidence of wheel spin.
To sharpen up the drive, make it more economical, or allow the car to decide, it features drive modes: "auto," "comfort," "dynamic," "efficiency," and "individual," allowing customisation of the suspension, steering, transmission, and engine settings.
Despite its impressive performance, it offers good fuel economy, with a theoretical mpg of 214mpg. This of course depends on the use of electric power, but a real world figure of near 60mpg did not seem far off the mark.
Not bad for such a big, powerful vehicle.
If you want to preserve fuel and run more on electric, the battery can be charged in under three hours with a 7kW charger.
As with all Audis, safety kit is comprehensive and includes the full complement of airbags, auto braking, lane departure warning, cruise control, and a rear-view camera. Additional features include pre-tense seatbelts, front cross-traffic assist, and lane-keeping assist.
Factfile
Audi A6 Avant 50 TFSI e quattro 299PS S line S tronic
Price: £62,995
Mechanical: 299PS, 1984cc, petrol engine and electric motor driving four wheels wheels via 8-speed auto gearbox
Max speed: 155mph limited
0-62mph: 6.3seconds
Combined mpg: 241
Insurance group: 46E
CO2 emissions: 30g/km
BiK rating: 8%
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles
